Although it might sound intimidating, an air purifier is a simple machine that anybody can purchase for cleaner air in his or her home. A home air purifier is not just for people with asthma or other breathing problems. They are for anybody who simply wants to breathe cleaner air in their homes. If you have been considering the purchase of a new air purifier, there are some things to consider in order to find the best one for you. Whether you are buying it for medical reasons, or simply to increase the quality of air that you breathe, buying the right home air purifier can be a great investment in your health and your future.

Learn the terminology of air purificationBefore you go shopping for a new home air purifier, either online or at your local department store, you will want to be familiar with the terminology. If you do not know the terminology, you’ll be reading about HEPA filters, ionizers and precipitators, but nothing will make sense to you. As a result, you might be paying for something you do not really need or you might not get something that you’re expecting with your new product. The following are common terms used when discussing an air purifier so you can make the best, informed decision possible about your purchase.

Filters – These are the parts of the purifier that actually purify and clean the air, but there are several different types of filter. One type of air purifier filter, will require you to replace them when they get dirty.

If you choose a purifier that needs replacement filters, be sure to find out how often you need to replace them and how much they cost. Many times, it will be less expensive to pay a few extra dollars for a model with filters that you can clean rather than buying replacement filters all the time.

HEPA Filters – While all home air purifiers will have a filter, you can find others that go the extra step with a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter. Because of the strict government regulations that they must go through, HEPA filters are much more effective at cleaning the air and they are also ideal for reducing allergens in the air. If you are getting a purifier for the purpose of improving the air you breathe or because of a health condition, these will likely be the best option for you.

Ionizer – These types of air purifiers use electrically charged ions to clean the air. To do this, the ions attach themselves to particles in the air. These particles then draw to a collection area, removing them from the air. Generally, there are two types of ionizers – ones that use fans and ones that don’t use fans. The ones that use a fan clean the air much faster and more efficiently. Ionizers without fans, though, are much quieter yet they are less efficient.

Other considerations when buying a home air purifierIn addition to knowing the terms and different parts, several other considerations will help you find the ideal model for your needs.

Room size – When choosing an air purifier, make sure that the one you buy will be able to handle the size of the room in which you plan to keep it. If it is too small for the room, it will be inefficient and it won’t clean all of the air in the room. If you purchase an air purifier that is to small for your room size then there is a good chance it will be overworked and become inefficient.

Noise level – If you plan to put the air purifier in your bedroom, you will likely want to purchase one that runs quietly. If it is noisy, it might keep you up at night. Typically, the amount of noise that air purifiers make is no indication of the effectiveness or efficiency. It is merely the type of mechanism that each particular one uses for cleaning the air.

Efficiency – Some air purifiers are more efficient than others are. This means that some will cost more to run than others will. If you are worried about electricity costs, look for air purifiers that cost less to run. The model size is one way to determine the amount of electricity it uses, but other factors contribute to it as well, such as the number of moving parts.

Filter indicators – One of the more helpful features on some air purifiers is a light that comes on when the filter needs a changing or cleaning. If you run an air purifier with a dirty filter, it loses some of its effectiveness and it is less efficient. By having an indicator light to tell you when it needs cleaning or changing, you can do it immediately and keep it running at its optimum level of performance.

Appearance – If you want your air purifier to fit into your home’s décor, the appearance could play a major role in your decision. With the variety of models, you are likely to find something that matches your style so it does not clash and become an eyesore.

Price – As with any product, price is always a factor for the model that you choose. Look for sales at your local department and electronics stores before you go shopping. Also, look online. You can find many great deals for new or slightly used air purifiers by going to a wholesale website or one of the many auction websites. Be sure to read the descriptions carefully, so you know exactly what you are buying.

The Benefits of a home air purifierOne of the major benefits of having an air purifier in your home is that is helps your children breathe better.

Young children have immune systems that are not completely formed and a purifier will help them breathe cleaner air that does not have as many germs or bacteria. This also cuts down on the amount of time you or your children get sick from common airborne illnesses, such as colds or the flu.

In addition, pet owners benefit from air purifiers. A quality purifier will trap the pet hair and remove it from the air that you breathe in your home. The tiny air particles that are associated with pet waste and feces are also trapped. Since these particles can be dangerous to anybody in the home, a purifier makes the house a safer and cleaner place to live.

With millions of air purifiers in homes throughout the country, there is no doubt that they are a popular addition to a household that wants to have a healthy lifestyle. An air purifier is for not only people with asthma or other breathing issues, but they are also ideal to ensuring that you breathe clean air while in your home. If you have children or pets, a home air purifier is almost an essential part of any household. Once you know what to look for to get the best model for your home, you can shop around and find the best deal for your specific needs.

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